THUNDER BAY – Peng You says the Ontario Progressive Conservative Party is the only party that can make a difference for Northwestern Ontario.
It’s why the first-term city councillor sought out and captured the nomination for the party in Thunder Bay-Superior North.
A political neophyte when he swept into the top of the at-large race in the most recent municipal election, with more than a third more votes than his nearest competitor, You said he’s been following Ontario’s pandemic response and is impressed with the results he’s seen.
“Through the pandemic last year, I saw strong leadership from Premier Doug Ford and his team. They have been working tirelessly for the people to keep us safe and also put Ontario on a solid path. That’s why I think they are in the best position,” You said.
“And I also really want to join Minister (Greg) Rickford at Queen’s Park to bring the key issues and opportunities that matter to the region and those who live here. Thunder Bay-Superior North deserves a voice at the table when the crucial decisions are made about the future.”
You, who immigrated to Canada from China several decades ago with his late wife, said he wants to be a champion for the region, much like his likely Liberal opponent, Michael Gravelle, has been since first winning office in 1995.
It’s just time for a change after a quarter of a century, You said, praising Gravelle for his service nonetheless.
“In this region, we don’t have a representative in a major party like the PC,” You said. “We are a special region and we need more support from other levels of government.”
You, a successful businessman and Tai Chi master, said he thinks he can translate his popularity at the municipal level into votes at the provincial level, despite the fact the Conservatives have not won the riding, formerly known at Port Arthur, since 1963, when George Wardrope captured the last of four consecutive wins for the party.
“People know who I am,” said You, adding he’s learned a lot in two-and-a-half years sitting on Thunder Bay city council.
He also said he understands the plight of the people, many of whom are suffering even more during the age of COVID-19.
“When I came here we had no language, no money. We worked very hard. This is our adopted hometown and I want to give back more. I don’t like politics, but I do love my home,” he said, adding the region has plenty potential he believes he can tap into should he win the election.
You is the latest in a line of Thunder Bay councils to seek higher office. Current at-large Coun. Rebecca Johnson finished third in 2007 in Thunder Bay-Atikokan, while Andrew Foulds sought to unseat Gravelle under the NDP banner in 2014.
